Michael is a BCBA that has worked with a family for over (5) years. Recently, his learner has entered adolescence and he has started to exhibit behaviors best categorized as “hyperactivity”. The family read about Omega-3 supplements and started an aggressive, but medically safe dosage schedule. This regimen requires the vitamin be given after school at the clinic. The clinic currently has a medication administration protocol, but Michael is concerned with the BACB code and non-supported interventions. Should Michael provide the supplement?
Should Non-Supportive Interventions Be Applied.
Full Answer Section
Another study, published in 2018, found that Omega-3 supplements reduced hyperactivity and improved academic performance in adolescents with ADHD.
However, it is important to note that more research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of Omega-3 supplements in reducing hyperactivity in adolescents. Additionally, it is important to note that Omega-3 supplements are not a cure for ADHD, and they should not be used as a substitute for medication or other evidence-based treatments.
Given the limited research on Omega-3 supplements and hyperactivity in adolescents, Michael should carefully consider the following factors before deciding whether or not to provide the supplements:
- The learner's age and developmental stage
- The learner's current medical condition and any medications they are taking
- The family's wishes
- The potential benefits and risks of Omega-3 supplements
If Michael decides to provide the Omega-3 supplements, he should do so in a way that is consistent with the BACB code of ethics and evidence-based practice. This means that he should:
- Obtain informed consent from the family before providing the supplements
- Monitor the learner's progress carefully and make adjustments to the dosage or frequency of the supplements as needed
- Consult with other professionals, such as a physician or registered dietitian, as needed
Here are some additional things to consider:
- Is Michael providing the supplements as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for the learner's hyperactivity?
- Is Michael working with the family to develop and implement other strategies to reduce the learner's hyperactivity, such as behavior modification techniques?
- Is Michael documenting the learner's progress and sharing this information with the family and other professionals involved in the learner's care?
If Michael can answer yes to all of these questions, then he is likely providing the Omega-3 supplements in a way that is consistent with the BACB code of ethics and evidence-based practice.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to provide Omega-3 supplements to the learner is up to Michael. However, he should carefully consider the factors discussed above before making a decision.
Sample Answer
The Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) code of ethics states that behavior analysts should not provide interventions that are not supported by scientific evidence. However, there is some evidence to suggest that Omega-3 supplements may be effective in reducing hyperactivity in adolescents.
A 2016 review of 16 studies found that Omega-3 supplements improved memory, attention, learning, impulsivity, and hyperactivity in children with ADHD. The review also found that Omega-3 supplements were safe and well-tolerated.